Sunflowers are one of the most cheerful and recognizable flowers you can grow in your backyard. Known for their bright yellow petals and large, sun-facing blooms, sunflowers add instant color and height to gardens of all sizes.
They’re easy to grow, fast to mature, and loved by pollinators and birds alike. From towering giants to compact, decorative varieties, these are the most popular types of sunflowers to grow in your backyard.
1. Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
The common sunflower is the classic variety most people recognize, featuring large yellow petals and a dark center. It grows quickly, thrives in full sun, and is very easy to grow from seed. This sunflower is great for garden beds, borders, and attracting pollinators.
2. Mammoth Sunflower
Mammoth sunflowers are famous for their towering height and massive flower heads. They can grow over 10 feet tall and produce large seed heads that are perfect for harvesting. These sunflowers are popular for backyard gardens where space allows and are fun to grow with kids.
3. Autumn Beauty Sunflower
Autumn Beauty sunflowers are known for their rich mix of colors, including shades of yellow, orange, bronze, and red. They produce multiple blooms on branching stems rather than a single flower. This variety adds long-lasting color and works well in cutting gardens.
4. Teddy Bear Sunflower
Teddy Beusually growing only a few feet tallar sunflowers feature soft, fluffy, double blooms that resemble pom-poms. They stay compact, , making them ideal for small gardens and containers. This variety is especially popular for its unique look and easy care.
5. Dwarf Sunflower
Dwarf sunflowers are bred to stay short while still producing bright, cheerful blooms. They are perfect for patios, raised beds, and container gardens. These sunflowers are easy to manage and bloom quickly, making them great for beginners.
6. Sunspot Sunflower
Sunspot sunflowers are a compact variety known for their large flower heads on short, sturdy plants. They usually grow only a few feet tall, making them great for containers and small garden spaces. Despite their size, they produce impressive blooms that look just like classic sunflowers.
7. Russian Giant Sunflower
Russian Giant sunflowers are tall, fast-growing plants with very large flower heads. They are often grown for their edible seeds and can reach impressive heights in a single season. This variety is ideal for gardeners who want dramatic size and productivity.
8. Velvet Queen Sunflower
Velvet Queen sunflowers stand out for their deep red and burgundy petals. They grow tall and produce multiple blooms, adding bold, dramatic color to the garden. This variety is popular in ornamental and cutting gardens.
9. Lemon Queen Sunflower
Lemon Queen sunflowers feature soft, pale yellow petals and a branching growth habit. They bloom over a long period and attract bees and butterflies. This variety works well in naturalized gardens and pollinator-friendly landscapes.
10. Red Sun Sunflower
Red Sun sunflowers have rich reddish-brown petals that create a striking contrast in the garden. They grow tall and produce multiple blooms throughout the season. This variety is a great choice for gardeners looking to add darker tones to their sunflower display.
11. Italian White Sunflower
Italian White sunflowers have soft, creamy-white petals with dark centers, giving them a more subtle and elegant look than traditional yellow sunflowers. They grow tall and branch heavily, producing many blooms throughout the season. This variety is especially popular in cottage gardens and pollinator-friendly landscapes.
12. Chocolate Sunflower
Chocolate sunflowers are known for their rich, dark centers that contrast beautifully with golden petals. They grow tall and produce multiple flowers on branching stems. This variety adds warmth and depth to backyard gardens and works well in cutting gardens.
13. ProCut Sunflower Series
The ProCut sunflower series is bred specifically for strong, straight stems and uniform blooms. These sunflowers typically produce a single flower per stem, making them ideal for cut flowers and tidy garden displays. They bloom quickly and come in a range of colors, including yellow, gold, and red tones.
14. Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia)
Mexican sunflowers feature bright orange-red blooms and thrive in hot, sunny conditions. While not a true sunflower, they are commonly grouped with sunflowers and are loved for their intense color and ability to attract butterflies. They grow tall and bushy, making them a bold addition to backyard gardens.
15. Wild Sunflower
Wild sunflowers are native varieties that grow naturally in many regions. They tend to produce smaller flowers on branching plants and are extremely hardy. These sunflowers are excellent for naturalized gardens, wildlife areas, and low-maintenance landscapes.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.